Miami Prospect Breakdown: Chad Thomas

Potential: When teams started recruiting Chad Thomas as a rising sophomore, they didn't do so because of his fantastic on-field performances. No, teams saw a 6-foot-6 frame, a long wingspan, and a preternatural explosiveness off the line. Add 20 pounds to his frame, and he could be one of the top defensive end prospects in the nation.

Teams figured they'd add those 20 pounds when he got to campus — but Thomas opted to add 30 of seemingly raw muscle before his senior season.

Each year, Thomas' on-field performance has improved. If he continues improving at this pace, he'll be a top-level NFL prospect. Even if his development is stunted (relative to his progress, that is) he still projects to be a top-level ACC player.

Readiness: Thomas is ready to step into the ACC today, but he will need to improve the work with his hands to be an all-around weapon on the outside. As of his commitment, Thomas is an athletic edge rusher who lacks the ability to work the inside of the line. That's a correctable issue, but Thomas is unlikely to be an every-down DE until his game becomes more versatile.

Inside rush:

Outside rush:

Need: You can never have to many pass rushers, but getting an Aldon Smith or Jason Pierre Paul style defensive end is huge for a Miami defense that gives plenty of liberties to its defensive ends.

Thomas' need is more emotional. He's a top-level recruit that Miami has been high on for years. Thomas' ascent to the top of recruiting boards across the nation was a validation of Miami's scouting. Bringing in a player like Thomas, who was given every opportunity to leave South Florida, will do a lot to quell the fervor of the Hurricanes fans, who (rightfully) believe that the Miami should build from a South Florida base.